The importance of the maritime commerce to the economy of the country was emphasised by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in his statement on April 5 in honour of the 59th Maritime Day. The Indian Navy is essential to safeguarding both our maritime trade and the safety and security of the nation.
India has a lengthy coastline of almost 7500 kilometres, which is more than the length of our shared land borders with China and Pakistan put together. India is surrounded by water on all three sides.
The Indian Navy and Naval Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA) are organising the “SAM NO VARUNAH” maritime awareness coastal motor car adventure, which will travel the whole Indian coastline in March 2023, to awaken the maritime nation and promote sea consciousness.
The expedition’s goals include the following:
- Celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.
- Conduct awareness drives along the route about various career opportunities that the Navy offers including the Agnipath Scheme.
- Showcase ‘Naari Shakti’ by participation of serving women officers and naval wives.
- Instill a sense of adventure and motivate young generation to join the Indian Navy.
- Interact with Naval Veterans/ Veer Naaris enroute.
- Spread awareness about the rich maritime heritage and revival of maritime history by covering various Ports, Forts, Light Houses, Heritage Villages, Beaches etc.
Towards this expedition it is planned to:
- The rally will begin on March 26 in Kolkata and end on April 19 in Lakhpat, Gujarat, under the auspices of INS Netaji Subhas.
- Arrive to INS Chilka on the historic occasion of the graduation of the Indian Navy’s first batch of adversaries. (28 Mar 23).
- Conduct awareness efforts in the cities and villages along the route to inform people about the Navy’s job prospects, particularly the Agnipath Scheme.
- Conduct NWWA outreach programs in different nursing homes, orphanages, and schools for special needs kids in line with the philosophy of community empowerment.
- Coastal cleanup efforts should be made at nearby beaches, along with environmental education.
- Visit forts/ light houses/ places of maritime importance along the rally route and spread awareness of our rich maritime heritage.
The adventure is partnered with M/s Mahindra, who is providing a fleet of 12 vehicles, along with Mastercard India and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. The expedition is scheduled to take place over 25 days and cover around 7500 Kms while traveling through all coastline states. (as fuel partner).